Rolland Brieuc is one of the most promising young French riders currently racing for the Groupama-FDJ team. Known for his consistency, climbing skills, and tactical intelligence, he distinguished himself in 2024 with notable performances in major U23 races, including his key role in the French success at the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix. "The stage where Mathys won and took the leader's jersey is the one I remember most — it was the highlight for us," says Brieuc. "That day we finished first and second, showing our full strength as a team. I had arrived with high expectations, after my second place at the U23 French Championships, and I really wanted to do well. The course was challenging, the general classification very tight: we had to fight every day until the end. We were all incredibly proud of the work done — it was a collective effort and a well-deserved reward. That race gave me confidence, created momentum for the rest of the season, and was a springboard in my growth path. Racing with the national jersey is something special — different from racing with the team, and for a U23 rider, it's a fundamental experience. Since then, I've made the jump to the WorldTour where I continue to learn and grow."

Arno Wallenborn, a Luxembourg promise now with the Tudor Pro Cycling Development Team, recounts: "The ORLEN Nations Grand Prix was definitely a key moment of my season. I clearly remember the final stage, where I narrowly missed victory, finishing second. But the entire week was a success: we won a stage with a teammate, and I made it to the final podium, a true crowning achievement. It was an important confidence boost that opened new opportunities, ultimately leading me to Tudor Pro Cycling. Races like this are a great showcase, and my advice for those racing this year is: seize the opportunity, even if you're not the favorite — you never know what might happen."

Another protagonist of the past edition was Mathys Rondel, among the most promising riders for stage races. After winning the second day and the final triumph at the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix 2024, Rondel consolidated his reputation as a future general classification leader. "The moment I carry with me is the stage I won — a solo attack on the climb 3 km from the finish," Rondel recalls. "It was a tough finale, and in those moments you think: will they catch me or not? Both that stage and the overall victory were important goals, and I was proud to achieve them, especially thanks to the team's support. The ORLEN Nations Grand Prix is a special race — the course is hard, the competition is open, and you must always dare. You never know what's possible until you try something. For me, the race confirmed that I was in excellent form and at the right level, giving me confidence for the future. Even though I already had a long-term contract, results like this show that you're progressing in the right direction."

Emiel Verstrynge, a young Belgian talent with Alpecin-Deceuninck, made an impression at the 2024 ORLEN Nations Grand Prix, where he reached the podium twice and secured a notable result in the general classification. "What stuck with me most from last year's edition was the final stage — the finish at the hotel in Poland, on a beautiful and challenging course, made that finale truly special," says Verstrynge. "I started with the goal of achieving a good result, but two podiums and such a high overall position exceeded all expectations. The course is tough, the race is open, and the atmosphere with national teams adds something unique. It's a race that tests you, and it's also a great platform to demonstrate what you're capable of. My advice to first-time participants? Set realistic goals, and enjoy the challenge — it's an experience that will stay with you."

The testimonies of these young talents show how the ORLEN Nations Grand Prix is much more than a simple race: it's a high-intensity proving ground where tomorrow's leaders are forged. A showcase of raw talent and national pride, a competitive environment where young riders learn to challenge themselves, suffer, take risks, and pursue victory on an international stage. With brave attacks, shared emotions, and dreams beginning to take shape, this race continues to be one of the most significant moments in international youth cycling.